Virtual reality (VR) has certainly come a long way. From the invention of the Sensorama machine in the early 1960s to the creation of the Oculus Rift headset — which paved the way for many VR headsets available on the market today. What started out as science fiction has since become a reality, with VR technology allowing users to immerse themselves in environments that either closely mimic reality or are utterly fantastical.
Nowadays, we can experience virtual reality through mediums such as games and apps. The technology is also making its presence known in the film industry, with filmmakers incorporating virtual reality into documentaries and animated films. Facebook and YouTube have also taken advantage of VR by developing 360-degree videos, giving users a chance to try it out for themselves.
In this article, we discuss how it works and how people can utilize this technology, whether for entertainment or for practical, real-world purposes.
But first, what is VR, and how does VR work?
What is VR?
Virtual reality allows users to explore and interact within a three-dimensional, computer-generated environment. Current technology utilizes virtual reality headsets or multi-projected environments, at times in combination with props or physical environments, to generate highly realistic images, sounds, and other sensations. Once inside the immersive environment, users can execute certain actions, such as moving around, manipulating objects, and utilizing other imaginary features found in this fabricated artificial world.
Going beyond its technical aspects, virtual reality is considered to be a specific type of reality emulation. The term’s definition stems from the words “virtual,” which means near and “reality,” which pertains to our real-world experiences. Both our senses and the parts of our brain involved in sensory perception dictate our perception of reality. Hence, when the brain is fed made-up information, it can alter our perception of reality. But how does VR work?
How does VR work?
VR headsets receive input from two different sources: an HDMI cable that is either connected to a PC or console or a smartphone. The former applies to headsets such as the HTC Vive and the Oculus Rift, while the latter is used with Google’s Daydream and Samsung’s Gear VR headsets. You can also connect other devices—such as head and hand tracking, controllers, and voice input—to your VR headset.
Once you’re ready to use your VR headset, here’s what happens inside of it:
There are either one or two screens per eye that receive two feeds, as well as autofocus lenses that are positioned between your headset’s screen and your eyes. These can be adjusted depending on both eye movement and positioning. Their other functions include picture focusing and reshaping for each eye, and tilting two 2D images to produce a stereoscopic 3D image that emulates how our eyes view the world.
Several VR headsets have a minimum 100- or 110-degree field of view for a more immersive VR experience. As for the image produced by these devices, a minimum frame rate of 60fps is required to make it convincing without making the user feel sick.
What is a VR headset?
VR headsets are a form of heads-up display (HUD). They allow users to immerse themselves in imaginary environments via a first-person view (FPV). The user’s everyday world is replaced with games, movies, or pre-recorded 360-degree VR environments.
Apps created for these devices can either be mobile or tethered. These feature technology such as gaze tracking, infrared sensors, gyroscopes, and accelerometers that naturally move the users’ point of view. Stereo (for mobile apps) and surround or 3D sounds (for tethered apps) are also present in these types of apps.
However, VR apps and headsets have encountered problems in their development, with some users experiencing “virtual reality sickness,” the most common symptoms being headaches, nausea, and vomiting, among others. Developers also struggle to reduce latency to help prevent viewer disorientation.
Some of the most popular VR headsets on the market today include:
Oculus Quest 2
With hundreds of new and backwards-compatible games to choose from, access to live events, and a vibrant online community of gamers, the Oculus Quest 2 is a definite upgrade from prior versions. Use the headset and touch controllers with the mobile app or connect to your computer for even more content.
Pimax Vision 8K X
For intense VR that rivals reality in clarity and scope, the Pimax Vision 8K X is hard to beat. This headset features a 200 degree field of view — more than double the FOV of many of its competitors. Immersive acoustics complete the experience whether you’re gaming or exploring new worlds.
HTC VIVE Pro 2
The HTC VIVE Pro 2 proactively addresses one of the top complaints about VR headsets: eye fatigue. With an adjustable interpupillary distance, you can calibrate the headset and visual effects to suit your eyes. You can even wear the headset with glasses. Say goodbye to VR headaches and tired eyes!
Pimax Vision 5K Super
Enjoy a massive collection of games on Steam and Oculus home with this wide FOV headset. The Pimax Vision 5K Super delivers a significant refresh rate upgrade. That makes ghosting effects that can lead to dizziness a thing of the past. For both gaming and watching movies, you’ll notice the resolution improvements.
DPVR E3 4K
The DPVR E3 4K offers plenty of impressive specifications at an ultra-affordable price point. Low latency and 4K resolution meets a respectable refresh rate in this fantastic introductory VR headset. SteamVR and VIVEPORT games are fully supported so there’s lots of content to access and enjoy.
Cinegears V1 Pro VR 3D Player
Designed specifically for VR filmmakers, the Cinegears V1 Pro VR 3D Player features a uniquely developed operating system strategically assembled for VR production. Now 3D filmmakers can fully immerse themselves in the environments they create for troubleshooting, testing, and reviewing on set footage.
Pupillary distance and screen distance are both fully adjustable to ensure maximum comfort and reduced eye fatigue after prolonged use. Removable velcro padding makes cleaning easier and provides a customizable fit for faces of all shapes and sizes. Plus, blue-light-protective, distortion-free lenses pamper your eyes and may even combat sleep interruption issues associated with screen use.
HTC VIVE Focus 3
The HTC VIVE Focus 3 is a robust VR headset designed for immersive gaming, education, business applications, and exploring marketing campaigns. Dial in the perfect interpupillary distance for improved comfort and enjoy an active cooling mechanism that prevents overheating.
This set’s astounding 3D Spacial Audio will also make you feel fully immersed in your favorite VR content. Open-back speakers keep you aware of your surroundings, while the directional speaker design reduces sound leakage for added privacy. A patented quick-release button makes the set easy to put on and take off quickly for additional convenience and functionality.
What are the uses of virtual reality?
Virtual reality is present in numerous fields, such as entertainment, marketing, education, and medicine, although gaming remains one of the most popular VR uses. For instance, military forces use VR for flight, battlefield, and vehicle simulations, as well as medic training and virtual boot camp. It also helps them reduce training costs and recreate training conditions safely.
VR systems are widely utilized in both mental health and medical training, and are used to treat post-traumatic stress, anxiety, phobias, and depression. Both medical and dental students have taken advantage of this technology, as it enables them to practice surgeries and other procedures.
In the field of education, VR systems enable students to interact with each other in 3D environments. Museums, the solar system, and historical time periods can be “visited” remotely with the help of VR. The technology can also encourage children with special needs to practice their social skills.
What does virtual reality look like?
Ever wondered what an immersive environment looks like? The video above recreates a gladiator match in the Roman Colosseum during ancient times. It allows users to roam around the stadium while learning about its history and how it was made.
Are you ready to jump into the wonderful world of virtual reality? Check out Adorama’s VR headsets and accessories section for some great finds!
Virtual Reality vs Augmented Reality
While some people use the terms virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) interchangeably, they’re actually very different types of technology.
VR systems replace everything in your field of vision with a simulated world, while augmented reality adds artificial elements to the real world around you.
Augmented reality offers more seamless integration of artificial objects or visuals in your field of view. It requires you to view the world through a screen of some type, like a tablet, cell phone, or pair of smart glasses.
As technology continues to advance, you’ll likely see more augmented reality applications appear, but for the time being, virtual reality is more commonly used in gaming.
AR Examples
The most widely recognized augmented reality application is Pokémon Go, a game where digital characters are superimposed on the actual field of view.
Other common augmented reality applications are heads-up displays in vehicles and smart glasses that project date, time, weather, and other information in your field of view. Beauty and makeup apps can help you try out a new haircut, color, or overall look with a superimposed filter. Some online shopping apps even offer augmented reality as a way of envisioning new furniture or decor in your home before you buy.
VR Examples
Oculus Quest 2 and HTC Vive are common examples of virtual reality systems. Aside from gaming, it’s also often used in surgery, mental health treatment, and retail applications that let you get close up with a product during online shopping. VR is also gaining ground with educational platforms that let students get close and personal with learning materials.
Modern VR uses and applications
The potential for VR applications continues to grow throughout multiple industries. Here are some of the most impressive uses for current virtual reality technology.
Entertainment
Immersive gaming is the most obvious and ubiquitous use of virtual reality. With a VR headset and a gaming system, you can explore video game worlds as your favorite characters and experience games in 360° views. With the addition of haptic gloves and other gear, you can even translate your physical movements into your gameplay experience for an elevated level of interactivity.
Medicine and Healthcare
Virtual reality is a valuable tool for training doctors on new technologies and providing experience in rare procedures. VR labs offer a means of surgical training so physicians can practice tricky procedures over and over again before entering the operating room.
Travel and Tourism
When you can’t get away for a long vacation or a physical limitation keeps you from exploring the ends of the earth, VR tourism is a great way to see what the world has to offer without leaving home.
Many museums around the world have made their collections accessible via Google Expeditions and other programs. That means you can view the Mona Lisa from your couch or check out the Leaning Tower of Pisa over your lunch hour.
Technology and Automotive Diagnostics and Training
Many other professions can take advantage of VR simulations for training and education. From pilot simulators to automotive diagnostics tools, many industries are exploring how VR technology can expand capabilities while reducing cost and other points of friction.
What is the future of VR?
Virtual reality is widely viewed as a growing industry. As resolution continues to improve and technological elements come down in cost, more and more industries and individuals are expected to take advantage of virtual reality.
Gaming, healthcare, live events, education, and a handful of other industries are exploring the future of virtual reality technology to further their offerings and capabilities. Here are some of the most anticipated VR applications for the future.
New Healthcare Capabilities
While surgeons can currently use VR to practice rare procedures and expand medical offerings, virtual reality combined with robotics will allow surgeons to perform difficult procedures remotely. Imagine the possibilities if a cardio thoracic surgeon can perform a delicate emergency procedure remotely on a patient in another city.
Meetings and Events
With disease and infection as a significant concern, many conferences, meetings, and life events are likely to shift to a virtual reality setting. Rather than observe other participants and presenters within the confines of a two-dimensional computer screen, you’ll be able to feel like you’re in an auditorium or a board room, engaging with other professionals.
Distance Learning
In the wake of COVID-19, many educational institutions are seeking novel ways to educate their students while keeping them engaged. Virtual reality offers a means of education that remains nearly as immersive as an actual classroom experience. VR also makes it possible for students to access institutions across the country and around the world.
Sales and Advertising
As with most technological advancements, companies already use virtual reality as a way to market their products and services. This effort will likely expand into the future of VR. Imagine putting on a VR headset and shopping in a virtual mall. You can effortlessly travel from store to store, interact with displays, and then wait for the items you purchase to arrive on your doorstep.
